Work groups are workers represented by a health and safety representative (HSR). Usually these workers perform similar types of work and have similar health and safety concerns and conditions within the workplace.
Work groups allow workers' interests to be represented effectively and conveniently.
The purpose of workers belonging to a work group is to facilitate representation on work health and safety matters by an HSR.
Once an election for an HSR has been requested by a worker, the person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU - the new term that includes employers) must take all reasonable steps to start negotiations with workers within 14 days to establish work groups.
This process will also help the PCBU and workers in a work group negotiate the number of HSRs and work groups required.
Determining work groups
In determining work groups consider:
- the number of workers
- the views of workers in relation to the determination and variation of work groups
- the nature of each type of work carried out by the workers
- the number and grouping of workers who carry out the same or similar types of work
- the areas or places where each type of work is carried out
- the extent to which any worker must move from place to place while at work
- the diversity of workers and their work
- the nature of any hazards at the workplace or workplaces
- the nature of any risks to health and safety at the workplace or workplaces
- the nature of the engagement of each worker, for example as an employee or as a contractor
- the pattern of work carried out by workers, for example whether the work is full-time, part-time, casual or short-term
- the times at which work is carried out
- any arrangements at the workplace or workplaces relating to overtime or shiftwork.
Decisions about establishing work groups must be made by consultation and agreement between the PCBU and the relevant workers. A worker’s representative can be appointed by the workers to negotiate on their behalf.
A work group may involve multiple PCBUs at one or more workplaces and these are called
multiple business work groups. The aim is to identify the most workable arrangement for the workplace.
When agreement on the work groups has been reached, the PCBU must notify the workers of the outcome of the negotiation.
Call 13 10 50 for more information about agreement on work groups.